Gardening Expert Urges March Sowing of Five Key Seeds for Summer Harvest
Gardeners across the UK are being strongly advised to sow five specific seeds this March to avoid potential regrets during the summer months. Expert Benedict Vanheems, known for his popular Grow Veg YouTube Channel, emphasises that timely planting now can lead to an earlier and more reliable harvest, countering the common misconception that gardeners should wait for milder weather before beginning summer preparations.
Tomatoes: A Prime Candidate for Early Sowing
Topping Benedict's list is the tomato, a crop he describes with palpable excitement. In a detailed video, he explains that tomatoes should be sown approximately six to eight weeks before the anticipated final frost. This careful timing prevents the plants from being too far ahead when weather conditions change. For optimal results, he recommends using an all-purpose compost in pots, spacing seeds about half an inch apart, and clearly labelling different varieties if multiple types are planted.
Once sown, Benedict suggests placing the pots on a heatmat to encourage seedling development. These seedlings can later be transferred into individual pots to grow into sturdy plants, ready for outdoor transplantation after the last frost has passed.
Potatoes: Timing and Precautions
March also presents an ideal window for planting potatoes, according to Vanheems. He notes that now is a great time to get seed potatoes into the ground or into nutrient-rich potting mix, though he cautions gardeners to exercise a bit of caution due to lingering frost risks. For those seeking an early crop, he advises waiting until the seed potatoes begin sprouting before planting, a step he acknowledges is not essential but provides a valuable head start on the harvest.
Benedict prefers starting his seed potatoes in sizable pots within a greenhouse, allowing him to molly-coddle them during their initial growth phase, ensuring robust development.
Additional Essential Seeds for March Planting
Beyond tomatoes and potatoes, Benedict highlights three other seeds that benefit from March sowing:
- Peas: He is a strong advocate for home-grown peas, which he describes as a world apart from frozen supermarket varieties. Hardy peas can be sown from early spring onwards, with Benedict recommending starting them in plug trays to protect against slugs and pigeons.
- Onions: Gardeners interested in growing onions are advised that there is just enough time to plant them now using sets, ensuring a timely addition to the summer garden.
- Kohlrabi: A more unusual choice, kohlrabi—a vegetable resembling a baby alien head and related to cabbage and broccoli—rounds out the list, offering a unique and nutritious option for adventurous gardeners.
By following these expert recommendations, gardeners can maximise their summer yields and enjoy a diverse, home-grown harvest. Benedict Vanheems' insights underscore the importance of proactive planting in March, turning potential summer regrets into rewarding gardening successes.
